2016 Tundra Configurations

29 configurations across 6 trim levels

Configuration Max Towing Payload MPG Engine
5.7L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
10,500 lbs 2,060 lbs
13/18
city/hwy
5.7L V8
381 hp • 401 lb-ft
5.7L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
10,300 lbs 1,715 lbs
13/18
city/hwy
5.7L V8
381 hp • 401 lb-ft
5.7L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
10,200 lbs 1,985 lbs
13/17
city/hwy
5.7L V8
381 hp • 401 lb-ft
5.7L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
10,100 lbs 1,695 lbs
13/18
city/hwy
5.7L V8
381 hp • 401 lb-ft
5.7L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
10,000 lbs 1,620 lbs
13/17
city/hwy
5.7L V8
381 hp • 401 lb-ft
5.7L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
9,800 lbs 1,585 lbs
13/17
city/hwy
5.7L V8
381 hp • 401 lb-ft
4.6L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
6,800 lbs 1,585 lbs
15/19
city/hwy
4.6L V8
310 hp • 327 lb-ft
4.6L V8 • 6-Speed Automatic
4WD
6,500 lbs 1,485 lbs
14/18
city/hwy
4.6L V8
310 hp • 327 lb-ft

Recommended Towing Gear

Equipment recommended for a Class IV hitch setup

Class IV Hitch
Rated for heavy duty towing
Shop Hitches
Brake Controller
Required for trailers over 3,000 lbs
Shop Controllers
Towing Mirrors
Extended visibility for safer towing
Shop Mirrors
Weight Distribution
Stabilize heavy loads
Shop WDH

Other Tundra Model Years

View All Years

Common Questions

Answers based on our research and real owner data

What can a 2016 Tundra actually tow?

It depends on which configuration you get. The 2016 Tundra ranges from 6,400 to 10,500 lbs. That's a big spread! The difference usually comes down to cab style, drivetrain, and engine choice. We always recommend staying around 80% of your max — so 8,400 lbs for safe towing.

Which configuration should I pick?

Start with what you're towing. If you know your RV or trailer weight, work backwards. Generally, 4WD adds safety at boat ramps and campgrounds but reduces towing capacity slightly. Crew cabs give you passenger room but less payload. Check the table above — we highlight towing and MPG so you can compare at a glance.

How does payload affect what I can tow?

Here's what catches people off guard: tongue weight counts against your payload. For bumper pull trailers, that's typically 10-15% of the trailer's loaded weight. So if your trailer weighs 8,000 lbs, you're putting 800-1,200 lbs in your truck bed. Add passengers and gear, and payload fills up fast.

What hitch do I need for a Tundra?

For the 2016 Tundra, we recommend a Class IV receiver hitch. It's rated for the full towing capacity of 10,500 lbs. Don't skimp here — your hitch is the critical link between truck and trailer.